Our first formal-attire event, we arrived at the Opening Reception and the distinguishment in the air air was palpable. As trays of cocktails and hors'd'oeuvres circled the room, Dr. David Satterwhite, Director of the Fulbright Program in Japan called guests' attention for a formal greeting. We were then welcomed by Kiso Isao, Director of MEXT (like U.S. Department of Education) which was followed by a moving speech by Ronald Post, Minister-Counselor of Public Affairs at the American Embassy in Tokyo. Most notably, Mr. Post said, "our world must see that foreign exchange is not threatening, but enriching. And you have the power to share this message through your experiences in Japan." After this moving message, a teacher representative from our group gave a welcome message and thank you on our behalf. The speaking concluded when Ginko Sata, a former Fulbright scholar who attended Columbia University as well as a former Ambassador to Kenya and current President Emeritus of the Japan Association for the Advancement of Working Women, toasted our desire to come together for the common goals of global awareness, understanding, and peace. We all exclaimed kampai (cheers)! with one another to officially kick-off our three week experience. Delicious food and enlightening conversation followed. I was honored to have the opportunity to speak with Masami Yabune, a former Fulbrighter who received his master's degree at the University of Texas and is now CEO of a company in Japan. I told him about Charlotte Latin School, my educational background, and my plans for sharing my experiences with others when I return to the U.S. I hope Yabune-san can be a contact for the group of students I'll be guiding through the "Challenge 20/20" project this fall.
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